How to Become a Minister Online as Easy as 1-2-3

Obtain a wallet card certifying your ordination.

Becoming a minister online is as easy as 1-2-3. You can preside over traditional and same-sex-couples marriages as a minister. As of June 2011, becoming ordained is free in some cases or can cost up to $150. Undertake ordination with serious consideration. Once you are ordained, consult with wedding ceremony preparation services and purchase any necessary religious texts to help you conduct ceremonies with success.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Personal ID

1. Become an ordained minister with the Esoteric Interfaith Church. Visit their website and select the type of ordination you desire. Ordination as an interfaith minister, for example, is ideal for overseeing wedding ceremonies; while esoteric or spiritual minister ordination gives one authority to preach to mystic and other alternative religious communities. Scroll down the home page and follow the instructions: send a one-paragraph email noting your interest in pastoral work; send a one-page email identifying any current un-ordained religious work; complete and submit the online application and $150 fee (as of June, 2011). Use the provided links for sending all necessary information.

2. Get ordained with American Fellowship Church. Visit their website and select the "I want to become a minister" link. Read the Minister Licensing Laws to review current information. Choose the type of license that suits your needs. As of June 2011, a one year minister license costs $30; while a five year license and certificate is priced at $115. Write in the title you wish to be called other than "Reverend" -- "Pastor" or "Minister", for example. Enter your contact information and follow the remaining instructions to complete your ordination process.

3. Become ordained through a Humanist organization if you do not believe in God. Go to the Spiritual Humanism website. Click the "Ordain Me" link on the home page. Enter your name, contact information and email information. Select the "Ordain Me" link for a second time. According to Spiritual Humanism, it is the "policy" of this type of ordination and belief "to promote absolute freedom of religion."

References

• Northern Way: Become an Ordained Minister
• MD Courts: FAQ
• Universal Life Church Monestary: FAQ

Resources

• Spiritual Humanism: Be Ordained
• American Fellowship Church: How to Become a Legally Ordained Minister Today
• Universal Life Church Monestary: Instant Online Ordination